Telephone and Trade directories may be another useful source of information
for the genealogist. Many libraries keep copies of these invariably large
volumes although for searches within a particular area it is best to look in the
local library as they are likely to have a greater selection of local trade
directories.

Most people are familiar with the use of a telephone directory and they may
be used to discover the address of an individual at a certain time. Of course
the fact that someone is not found may be because they are ex-directory.

Local trade directories were first published in the late 17th century but
over the next few centuries developed gradually to give more than just a
commercial orientation. As the directories developed they included more detail,
later versions giving local private names and addresses. Some were published for
whole counties, others limited to a local town. They can often be very
enlightening since not only do they provide lists of tradesmen and their
location, they will also provide extra details of the area. For example trading
times, local populations, local dignitaries, court details, local churches.

Publishers of trade directories include Kelly's, Morris, Pigot, Whites and the Post Office.

A digital library of eighteenth, nineteenth and early
twentieth century local and trade directories from England and Wales is available on the
University of Leicester website.